Kathmandu Day Tour: A Full Day City Tour Kathmandu
You can opt for our Kathmandu day tour if you have a full-day or half-day free in Kathmandu. It is a 7-hour guided tour of four must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
One of our experienced and friendly tour guides will guide you on the full-day Trip. They will pick you up from your hotel before the Kathmandu day tour begins and drop you off afterward.
We use a private tourist vehicle to commute between the monuments, which make the Kathmandu day tour hassle-free with Outfitter Himalaya.
Our Kathmandu day trip itinerary is well crafted and allows travelers to explore many historical sites in a limited time.
We do not rush during the tour, so you will have plenty of time to look around the monuments and capture their essence.
The Kathmandu day tour, known as the Kathmandu City Tour or Kathmandu Sightseeing, is the best way to understand Nepal's history and Nepali culture, beliefs, art, and architecture.
During this tour, you will learn a lot about this mythical country and the people residing here.
Not only that but all the places you visit for sightseeing in Kathmandu are surrounded by local markets and eateries. To some extent, you will look closely at Nepalese tastes and lifestyles.
Anyone can join Outfitter Himalaya on the Kathmandu day tour. No age limit or experience is required, and the tour is easy and leisurely.
Many people also understand this activity through sightseeing in Kathmandu, so they are clear.
We offer the most genuine Kathmandu day tour price in the market. For the amount you pay, you will get the best service.
You do not necessarily have to book the Kathmandu day tour in advance. You can contact us anytime, and we will do our best to arrange this tour for you.
Highlights of Kathmandu Full Day Tour
- A perfect option to spend your day in Kathmandu by visiting centuries-old historical sites
- Guided tour by one of our amiable, professional, and English-speaking guides who will introduce you to the monuments
- A 7 hours guided tour of four must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu that can be joined by people of all ages
- There is no rush during the Trip, so you will have plenty of time to explore the monuments and capture their essence.
- Understand Nepal's history and Nepali culture, beliefs, art, and architecture.
- Have a close look into Nepalese tastes and lifestyles to some extent.
- Explores tourist sites like Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa
- Best price, complete transparency, and no hidden charges
Things you should know before joining the Kathmandu Day tour
If you are planning to join a Kathmandu day tour, here are some tips and essential things you should know before you go:
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear.
Kathmandu can be hot and humid (depending on when you travel), so you should wear lightweight and breathable clothing. Comfortable footwear is also essential, as you will walk a lot during the tour.
Carry a water bottle.
Staying hydrated during the day tour is essential, so carry a refillable water bottle.
Be prepared for the weather.
The weather in Kathmandu can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before you go and carry appropriate gear, such as a raincoat or umbrella ( if you are traveling during the monsoon).
Carry local currency
You must carry Nepalese currency to buy souvenirs, food, and entrance tickets.
ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu, but carrying Nepali cash is always helpful.
Be respectful of local customs.
Nepal is a conservative country, so it is essential to dress modestly and respect local customs and beliefs.
Open your shoes before entering temples and look out for photography prohibition.
Refrain from wearing shoes inside the temples and monasteries. Ask first to take photos. Many places prohibit taking photos.
Try the local food.
Nepal has a rich culinary culture, and trying the local food is a must-do on the day tour.
Be aware of scams.
As with any popular tourist destination, Kathmandu is prone to scams and pickpocketing incidents. Be aware of your surroundings and cautious when dealing with strangers.
Be aware of traffic.
Traffic in Kathmandu can be chaotic, so be careful when crossing the streets and follow your guide's instructions.
Places to visit on Our Kathmandu Full Day Tour
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhu temple, also known as Swayambhunath or the Monkey Temple, is one of Nepal's most sacred Buddhist sites. It is located on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley, approximately 3 kilometers west of the city center.
The temple complex is believed to have been founded around 2,000 years ago and is revered by Buddhists and Hindus.
History
The history of the Swayambhu temple is steeped in myth and legend. According to Buddhist tradition, the site where the temple stands was once a lake that was believed to have been the source of the Kathmandu Valley.
The lake is believed to be drained by the bodhisattva Manjushri, who cut a gorge in the hills to the south, allowing the waters to flow out and leaving behind a fertile valley.
The Swayambhunath temple is said to have been built to honor the lotus that grew at the lake's center.
Architecture
The temple complex consists of a stupa, several shrines, temples, and numerous prayer wheels. The stupa is the most prominent feature of the complex, a massive white dome with a golden spire on top.
It is surrounded by several smaller stupas and statues of Buddha and other Buddhist figures.
Religious Significance
- Swayambhu temple is considered one of Nepal's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
- The temple is believed to be a source of great spiritual power, and many Buddhists come to meditate and pray at the site.
- The temple is also important to Hindus, who believe it was built by Vishnu.
- The Swayambhunath temple is also known for its resident population of monkeys, which are considered holy by both Buddhists and Hindus.
- The monkeys are believed to be the descendants of the monkey god Hanuman, a central figure in Hindu mythology.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The square is a complex of ancient palaces, temples, shrines, and courtyards that date back to the 12th century.
The site is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful stone sculptures. Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of Nepal's most important cultural and religious sites.
History
- The history of Kathmandu Durbar Square is closely linked to the Malla dynasty's history, which ruled over the Kathmandu Valley from the 12th to the 18th century.
- The square was the Malla Kings' royal palace site, surrounded by temples, courtyards, and other public buildings.
- Over time, the square became a center of religious and cultural activity, and several significant temples and shrines were built in the area.
Architecture
The architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square is a fascinating blend of different styles and influences, reflecting the city's long and rich history. The buildings in the square are made from wood, brick & stone.
They are characterized by their intricate carvings and decorative details. Many buildings feature traditional Newari architecture, known for its ornate carvings of animals, deities, and mythical creatures.
Religious Significance
- Kathmandu Durbar Square is considered one of Nepal's most important religious sites.
- The square has several significant temples and shrines, including the Taleju Temple, the Jagannath Temple, and the Kal Bhairav Temple.
- Many temples are dedicated to the Hindu gods and goddesses, while others are associated with Buddhist practices.
- The square is also essential for festivals and religious celebrations, with colorful processions, music, and dance performances throughout the year.
- One of the most important festivals celebrated in the square is the Indra Jatra festival, dedicated to the Hindu god Indra. It is celebrated in September every year.
Boudhanath Stupa
- Boudhanath stupa, also known as Boudha stupa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. It is one of the largest and most significant stupas in the world.
- Boudhanath stupa is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.
History
Boudhanath stupa's history dates back to the 5th century. It is believed to have been built by King Manadeva of the Licchavi dynasty. Various rulers, including the Malla kings of the 14th century, later renovated and restored the stupa.
The most recent restoration was carried out after the 2015 earthquake, which devastated Nepal and caused severe damage to the stupa.
Architecture
- Boudhanath Stupa is a massive dome-shaped structure that stands 36 meters high and has a diameter of 120 meters.
- The stupa is surrounded by a large circular market area, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- The structure is adorned with various symbols and intricate designs, including the Buddha's eyes and the Dharma chakra, representing wisdom and the wheel of law.
Religious Significance
- Boudhanath Stupa is an important religious site for both Buddhists and Hindus. It is believed to be the burial site of Kassapa Buddha, an important figure in Buddhist history.
- Boudhanath Stupa is also considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world. It is a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims who come to circumambulate it while reciting prayers or mantras.
- The Boudhanath stupa is also an important cultural and historical site, and there are many nearby monasteries, temples, and shops.
- It is a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. It is home to many Tibetan refugees who have settled in the area.
Pashupatinath temple
- Pashupatinath Temple is a famous and revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city.
- Pashupatinath temple is considered one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus worldwide. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History
The history of Pashupatinath temple dates back to the 5th century. However, the structure was built in the 15th century by the Lichchhavi King, Bhupatindra Malla.
The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, with the most recent major restoration work taking place in the 17th century under the patronage of King Pratap Malla.
Architecture
- The temple's architecture blends Nepalese pagodas and Shikhara style. The two-tiered roof is made of copper and embellished with gold.
- The temple stands on a raised platform and is built as a cubic structure, measuring 23.6 meters in height and 29.8 meters in width.
- The four main doors of the temple are covered with silver sheets, and the central courtyard has 518 small and large Hindu temples.
Religious Significance
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared at this site as a linga (an abstract representation of Shiva) and has resided here ever since.
- The temple is also considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (radiant Lingas) in India and Nepal, making it even more significant for devotees.
- The Pashupatinath temple is also believed to be a Mokshdham. In this place, one can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- The Pashupatinath temple attracts many pilgrims yearly, especially during the festival of Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees worldwide come to pay their respects to Lord Shiva.
- The temple is also an important cultural and historical site.
